GLOBAL RESEARCH TRENDS IN POST INTENSIVE CARE SYNDROME: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS (2010-2025)

Abstract

Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) is the physical, cognitive and psychological dysfunction in survivors after they leave the intensive care unit (ICU). The long-term complications are now recognized and have resulted in greater interest in research throughout the world. This study covers the latest trends, key players, collaboration networks, and future trends of PICS research from 2010 to 2025 on a global basis. A bibliometric analysis was carried out in Scopus, and 190 articles were pre-selected based on the criteria predefined. VOSviewer software was used to analyze publication trends, co-occurrence, co-authorship and country collaborations. The results showed that the volume of research has significantly increased, especially since 2020, indicating more focus on survivorship of an ICU and the COVID-19 pandemic. Key research areas were clinical outcomes, cognitive impairment, psychological health, rehabilitation, and quality of life. The USA proved to be the top contributor in publications, citations and network of collaborators. In general, PICS is a growing multi-disciplinary field, and future research and international co-operation are needed to enhance the long-term outcomes of survivors of the ICU.